Less than two weeks following the deadly blasts that have so far killed three people and left scores more critically injured, an equally disturbing aftermath of the tragedy is rearing its ugly head concerning police interference in freedom of speech.

Australia's tax authority has warned large multinational firms it is looking into the use of offshore marketing hubs over concerns such subsidiaries were being utilized to shift profits and reduce tax bills.

An independent Australian senator Tuesday threatened to physically intimidate Prime Minister Tony Abbott, using illegal rugby tactics including grabbing his testicles, if he does not limit coal-seam gas exploration.

Australia moved closer to recognizing Aboriginal people in its constitution Monday after talks with indigenous leaders, Prime Minister Tony Abbott said as he urged an end to the "echoing silence" in the founding document.

The world's top pharmaceutical companies Wednesday told an Australian parliamentary hearing they were compliant with local and international laws, despite claims they are charging higher prices to minimize tax.

The first openly gay U.S. ambassador to Australia said on Tuesday he was confident that the "great debate" among Australians on whether to allow gay marriages would result in the best outcome for the country.

Australia's top official on indigenous issues on Tuesday said crocodile safaris should be used to help fund impoverished Aboriginal communities, but the prospect of big game hunters was downplayed by Prime Minister Tony Abbott.